Navigating tax season can be daunting, and it's even more challenging with the rising threat of tax scams. But you can protect your personal information and financial security by staying informed and remain vigilant.
Here are 10 simple tips you can follow to help recognise and avoid common scams. From identifying phishing emails to reporting suspicious activity, these practical tips will empower you to safeguard your identity and prevent financial losses during tax season.
- Beware of phishing emails: Scammers frequently send out phishing emails pretending to be from myGov or related government agencies. These emails often ask for personal information, such as your myGov username, password, or other sensitive details.
- Verify email sources: Always double-check the sender's email address to ensure it's legitimate before responding to any emails claiming to be from myGov or government agencies. Official emails from myGov will typically come from addresses ending in @my.gov.au.
- Avoid clicking on links: Be cautious of any links included in emails purportedly from myGov. Instead of clicking directly on these links, manually type the myGov website address (https://www.my.gov.au/) into your browser's address bar to access your account.
- Watch for urgency or threats: Phishing emails often create a sense of urgency or include threats to prompt you into taking immediate action. Be skeptical of emails claiming your myGov account will be suspended or that you'll face penalties if you don't respond promptly. The same with offers of refunds, or overpayments.
- Never share personal information: Official representatives from myGov or government agencies will never ask you to provide personal information via email, such as your password, TFN (Tax File Number), or banking details. Avoid sharing this information in response to unsolicited emails.
- Report suspicious emails: If you receive a suspicious email claiming to be from myGov or government agencies, report it to the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) or the myGov Help Desk. Additionally, forward the email to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) if it's related to taxation. You can do this by either:
- phoning the ATO on 1800 008 540.
- forwarding a scam email to ReportScam@ato.gov.au
- taking a screenshot of fake social media and email them to ReportScam@ato.gov.au (This information is current as at 11 Feb 2024). - Use two-factor authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for your myGov account if possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password.
- Stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest scam alerts and security advice from myGov, the ATO, and other relevant government agencies. These organisations often provide information about common scams and how to protect yourself against them.
- Educate others: Spread awareness about myGov phishing scams among your friends, family, and colleagues. Encourage them to be vigilant and to report any suspicious emails they receive.
- Regularly monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your myGov account activity and regularly review your linked services, such as the ATO, Centrelink, Department Veterans Affairs and Medicare. Report any unauthorised activity or changes to your account immediately.
MyGov have provided further information about active scams and examples of myGov impersonation scam on their website to help you stay vigilant. You can review them here.
By being aware of the risks associated with myGov phishing emails and taking proactive measures, members can safeguard their personal information and minimise the likelihood of falling victim to scams.
What to do if you have encountered a scam
If you believe you may have been affected by a scam, please notify your financial institution as soon as possible.
Australian Mutual Bank members can speak to our Fraud Team by calling 13 61 91 or by emailing info@australianmutual.bank.
If you or someone you know has been impacted and may need ongoing help, there are support services available. These avenues of support are available to help, listen and believe.
Source: Customer Owned Banking Association (COBA)
